A GUIDE
What to do when someone dies
Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult, and in the days immediately following, you may feel overwhelmed. While grieving, there are a few essential steps to take that can help ensure your loved one’s affairs are handled smoothly. These steps may include registering the death, securing any property and important documents, notifying close family and friends, and locating the Will if one exists. This process can be emotionally challenging, but by taking these initial steps, you can begin to bring order to a difficult situation.
IMMEDIATE THINGS TO CONSIDER
Eight things people usually face first
- Registering the Death
Registering a death is an essential step that legally confirms a person’s passing. This process, typically completed within five days, requires specific documentation and provides you with a death certificate, needed to manage the deceased’s estate and other affairs.
Read more - Organ donation
England now operates under an “opt-out” system for organ donation, also known as “Max and Keira’s Law”. This means that unless a person has explicitly opted out, they are considered a potential organ donor upon death. Family wishes are still consulted.
Read more - Arranging the Funeral
Arranging the funeral is often the first priority for families, as they strive to honour the wishes of the person who has passed. It can be a time to celebrate their life, bring together family and friends, and find a sense of closure.
Read more - Tell Us Once Service
The “Tell Us Once” service allows you to notify multiple government departments of a death in a single step, making the process smoother and helping to ensure all relevant authorities are informed.
Read more - Securing An Empty Property
If the deceased person left a property, it’s crucial to take steps to secure it, especially if it will be vacant for an extended period. You may also want to inform the insurance provider, as properties left vacant can sometimes require additional cover.
Read more - Caring for Dependants
If the deceased person cared for young children, elderly relatives, or other dependants, it’s essential to make arrangements for their continued care and wellbeing.
Read more - Looking After Pets
When someone dies, their beloved pets may be left behind, and ensuring their wellbeing becomes an immediate priority. Instructions may be found in the Will or among personal papers.
Read more - Coping with your Loss
Grief is a natural response to the loss of someone who was deeply important to you, and every person’s experience of it is different. Knowing what is normal, and where to find support, can help.
Read more
There is no need to do all of this at once, and no need to do it alone. If you would like a hand with any of it, call 01934 271027 and we will talk it through with you, with no charge and no obligation.